High praise for Steve Yzerman ... and Brian Lawton?

Toronto Star columnist Damien Cox is one of the more straight-shootin' and level-headed, yet strongly-opinionated voices in the hockey world. Which is why is was a bit of a shock to see him praise former GM Brian Lawton for his work with the Lightning. Around here, Lightning fans tend to lump Lawton in with Orel Koules, Len Barrie and Rick Tocchet for the disastrous results of the past few seasons. Plus, you won't hear many nice things said about Lawton for the way he dealt with those who work inside the offices of the St. Pete Times Forum. Nevertheless, Cox brings up some interesting points in talking about new GM Steve Yzerman and the old GM Lawton. Cox writes:

The Bolts will still lose buckets of money this season, but the overall tone of what's happening in Tampa seems to be positive, and much of that has to do with Yzerman's presence and sterling reputation in the industry.

That said, much of what Yzerman has been able to accomplish in the first quarter of the season was because of what was accomplished over the previous two seasons by the former GM, Brian Lawton, who was fired at the end of last season by (owner Jeff) Vinik.

Click here to read Cox's column about Yzerman, Lawton and the Lightning.

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